Two middle school librarians talk about the need for Young Teen Lit
A romantic comedy is delightful enough on its own, but traveling to a new destination through the eyes of one’s protagonist brings with it an additional sense of escapism and adventure, especially if traveling in real life isn’t possible.
Today's board book has everything. Running around! Evening exercise! Even hidden pigs!
Author Ann Braden tackles difficult subject matter in her middle grade books. But she knows the value of an escapist read and wants the children's publishing world to respect and understand the kids who reach for "Wimpy Kid" more often than a title deemed to have more literary merit.
Author Jamar J. Perry joins us to talk about his new book FINDING PRINCE CHARMING.
You know what the hero of this book is doing when we first meet him? Kicking over the headstones of complete strangers in the cemetery. I review a STRONG title from Messner.
By sounding a warning before the catastrophe comes, it might motivate some readers to find ways to take action to mitigate the very worst of it.
In difficult times for librarians, authors, and educators across the country, the library and publishing worlds will once again come together to learn from each other and deepen their resolve.
These Juneteenth offerings include various formats, ranging from cookbooks to early readers to audiobooks, so all your young readers can find their preferred way to learn more about this holiday.
Sixth grade movie fan Galen's life is thrown into turmoil when his parents separate, and he tries coping with the changes by making a documentary about their split.
When I sat down to write VESUVIUS, my debut YA historical fantasy set in the final days of Pompeii, I did so to put queer people back in the narrative.
Beloved YA author Tiffany D. Jackson, winner of this year’s Margaret A. Edwards Award, speaks to SLJ about the award, her expansive work, and how real life influences her stories.
In these books that take place in part during the first semester of college, characters learn more about themselves during this time of transition—and maybe fall in love along the way.
This ain't a golden age of picture books anymore. We've gone platinum.
Today we have an exclusive preview of the third book in Caitlin Rose Boyle's charming middle-grade series about Frankie Fairy and the critters of the forest.
Eventually, the time will come when you have to go your own way like me and Aaliyah. You’ve got this and if nobody else believes in you, don’t worry—I do.
Teen librarian Karen Jensen shares an RA tool inspired by the Choose Your Own Adventure books that highlights the long running series and other books that allow the reader to make choices that change the outcome of the book
School librarians from the United States attended the Sharjah School Librarian Conference in the United Arab Emirates. SLJ spoke with AASL president Becky Calzada and 2016 School Librarian of the Year Todd Burleson about the event.
Seven recent graphic novels that feature family stories of love, loss, and lineage.
In a policy void, educators seek to maximize learning, turning to core skills, chiefly reading.
After public outcry, most of the 381 books removed from the Naval Academy are back; Texas legislation sends bill to governor that requires school boards or "advisory councils" to approve every new library book and review complaints; and Alabama Public Library board praises precedent set by Fifth Circuit decision in Little vs. Llano County.
Just in time for Father's Day, we've rounded up a few of the latest board books that highlight the special bond between fathers and their children. Share these titles with your young readers before mid-June or all year long.
A dive into some of the incredible books this small publishers is revealing in the coming year. Poisonous belladonna, hugging/besuited toads, and the interconnectedness of life itself are just some of the themes!
I only learn the queer history when I read books by LGBTQIA+ people. I read so I can know
Check out this week's list of new comics, manga, and graphic novels for readers 12 and under, featuring Seeker Society from Andrews McMeel and Yellow Singing Sail from Little Brown Ink.
Books are crucial tools in understanding the lives of those who may look or sound a little different from the majority.
With the year nearly halfway over, we continue to solicit suggestions for children's books that could be contenders for the 2026 Newbery Medal. Submit up to five titles by June 7th and we'll add them to our growing Mock Newbery list.
If Castle Swimmer sounds like a story you would enjoy, then I have some additional, queer YA comics I’d like to recommend, in celebration of Pride Month.
Despite the current Trump administration’s efforts to make the recognition of only two genders federal policy, publishers remain committed to inclusive representation of LGBTQIA+ characters and stories.
Teaching the next generation about STEAM skills and concepts is critical for our future. More than just a catchphrase, STEAM is an educational model that helps students develop the critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills they’ll need to navigate an increasingly complex future.
We go through all 18 different journal entries of Doreen Cronin's OTHER massively successful picture book series and discuss its finer aspects.
Teen librarian Karen Jensen talks about why it matters that Taylor Swift now has full ownership of her music
An intriguing offering that shines a light into a lesser-known aspect of the American abolitionist movement. Highly recommended.
A powerful testament to the strength and potential of individuals with Down syndrome, and an essential read for anyone seeking representation or to broaden their understanding of intellectual disabilities.
An inclusive must-buy for all upper elementar collections and for any institution serving an Indigenous community.
While slight in size and hampered by a couple of shortcomings, this collection offers genderqueer youth and allies a starting point in the discovery of historic community peers.
This enlightening title encourages curiosity about real-world scientific work and highlights the important bond between humans and animals; a strong purchase for juvenile nonfiction collections, particularly where there is interest in animals, environmental science, or conservation careers.
Long’s empathetic yet powerful writing beautifully portrays the awe-inspiring tenacity of the activists. Recommended for all libraries.
This nonfiction coming-of-age story is a perfect example of trying, failing, and rising again; it would be an excellent addition to sports collections and/or graphic novel sections.
An additional purchase for elementary library collections where cookbooks and unique cooking guides are popular.
The introduction of kawaii food designs and manga references helps acquaint young eaters with new flavors and dishes, while the chopstick games and crafts add to the fun of cooking while learning about Japanese culture. Douzo meshiagare!
This collection of recipes is a treasure; visually stunning, seasoned with quotes from famous female chefs, and a great addition to the “Rebel Girls” series.
Foodies and history buffs will enjoy this attractive cookbook filled with both recipes and facts about favorite foods and notable Black icons in history.
Perfect nostalgia fodder for parents who loved Friends, offering a way to bond with kids over cooking and pups.
Parents, caregivers, and teachers will enjoy a scrumptious trip down memory lane while showing younger generations the fun and joy of Pac-Man.
This book challenges teens to step out of their comfort zone with diverse spices, working with seafood, and tricky recipes, simplified but not condescending.
One of the best how-to books for young cooks, or for anyone who is learning. Every library should order at least one copy of this cookbook.
Younger tweens will be immersed in annual global celebrations and relish this cookbook’s vibrant graphic novel feel.
An attractive addition to collections serving youth prepared for a baking and decorating challenge
Creatively rendered fake-out cakes and cupcakes will delight bakers and eaters alike. Purchase is recommended for libraries that want to inspire creative bakers.
In kicking off Pride Month we talk with Vicki Johnson, who was disinvited from a major school event due to her picture book's supportive LGBTQIA+ themes. We discuss that and her latest title.
A beautifully crafted book about the joys of sharing a special moment, this will inspire in children an appreciation of nature.
This simple picture book about the joy of being alone and the benefits of working together is a solid purchase for most collections.
A solid choice for libraries, especially those seeking more slice-of-life Latinx representation.
If it’s okay to center the father and leave the child on the sidelines, share this with young readers. This is a recommended and playful introduction to the sport.
A gentle, thoughtful story that encourages children to slow down and appreciate the small moments of beauty in everyday life.
Cute-as-can-be axolotls engaging in sibling squabbles don’t save the text that forces rhymed endings.
A story of niche interest, but worthy for larger collections.
A worthy addition to early reader collections.
An excellent addition to beginning reader collections.
Too embedded in Marvel lore for newcomers, yet too slight for older fans. Purchase where there is a strong demand for these characters.
More questions about death are raised than answered. Recommended only as a secondary purchase.
A new iteration of a popular chapter book theme.
A must have addition to the growing selection of early reader graphic novels. Give to fans of Sergio Ruzzier’s “Fox & Chick” series.
This series is a strong choice for early elementary graphic novel collections. Perfect for those who enjoy stories where kids make mistakes and problem solve solutions.
An enjoyably silly title that would be a welcome addition to a library’s beginning chapter books collection; a recommended purchase.
Recommended for purchase for early reader collections.
A fast-paced and compelling sports choice for early reader collections.
For stories about helping friends, Joe Cepeda’s I Help or Suzy Capozzi’s I Am Helpful: A Positive Power Story offer stronger narratives. However, the unique illustrations in this title make it a worthwhile secondary purchase.
A winning title to help readers develop their visual literacy skills. Highly recommended.
A visually stellar, engaging book of quirky facts and creatures, this will draw in readers across grade levels and is a first purchase for all libraries.
A heartfelt tribute to a master musician whose life has lessons for all of us.
A gorgeously illustrated celebration that is a must-purchase.
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